Christmas is around the world, and we plan the best holiday for friends and family at this time of the year. Baklava is the most wanted and known recipe worldwide that is loved to celebrate the spirit of holidays. I have always tried different recipes like pies and cakes for my family. But Baklava is the most amazing dish that has won my Christmas parties’ hearts.
It is a delicious dessert that everyone enjoys to the full. You will instantly fall in love with this recipe with just one bite. Even you can serve it with coffee and tea or at weekend gatherings. You can customize the recipe with chopped nuts, dried fruits, and frostings that enhance the original recipe’s flavor. I will be sharing with you my simple recipe that helps to make Baklava soft, tender, and flaky.
Is Baklava famous during Christmas?
Yes, it is. Even though it originated from the Ottoman Empire, it is still the most demanding dessert for Christmas. Everyone loves this delicious pastry treat soaked with syrup that makes it irresistible.
Which is the most famous Baklava in the world?
The most famous Baklava is Pistachio, which has 40 layers of phyllo-grounded pistachios. It has a rich taste and flavors that are hard to beat, even compared to the most popular types of Baklavas.
Is Baklava and Baklawa the same?
No, it is not. Baklava has a flavor of cinnamon, while Baklawa has the flavor of cardamom, orange, and rose water. Moreover, nuts or dried fruits also vary in both main types.
Which country is famous for its Christmas Baklava?
Gaziantep is famous for its delicious pistachio Baklava in Turkey, which travelers enjoy whenever they visit this beautiful country.
Is Baklava healthy?
Yes! Even though it is a dessert, it has low calories and less saturated fats. You can even substitute the syrup with honey and enjoy it without worrying about calories.
Ingredients
- Phyllo dough 1 pack The pack should be 1 pound
- Ground cinnamon 2 tablespoons
- Chopped walnuts 2 cups
- Chopped pecans 2 cups
- Honey 2 cups
- Butter 1 and a half cups Melted in the microwave
- Vanilla essence 1 teaspoon
- Grated lemon zest 1 teaspoon
Instructions
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In a bowl, mix the walnuts, pecans, and cinnamon. Set it aside and prepare the baking dish by applying butter to it.
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Start by placing two Phyllo sheets on the bottom of the pan and brush the butter. You can apply as much butter as you want to enhance the flavors.
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Sprinkle 2 tbsp nut mixture and repeat the same process for all the layers.
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Apply some butter on the top to get crispy and flake the top of the pastry.
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With the help of a sharp knife, cut the baklava into a diamond shape.
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Bake it at 250 degrees for 45-47 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.
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While baking, take a saucepan and add honey, vanilla, and lemon zest.
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Once the Baklava is ready, pour the syrup on top and let it cool for 10 minutes on the counter.
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You can add more nuts on the top if you like. Also, you can serve it hot in the oven or let it cool in the fridge.